The New York Knicks (16-16) have now dropped to .500 following their loss to the New Orleans Pelicans. Phil Jackson calling off his engagement with Los Angeles Lakers executive Jeanie Buss is just one of several big news for the organization this week.
Zen Master Staying Put in Big Apple
Jackson announced via Twitter that his relationship with Jeanie Buss is over. Rumors have been circulating the most-decorated head coach in NBA history is planning to make his Lakers comeback as part of the team's front-office this summer.
The speculation of Jackson running the Lakers' front-office is based largely on his relationship with Buss. Now, their relationship came to a close, Tim Bontemps of The Washington Post believes it's time to consider the scenario of Jackson as Lakers GM dead. In fact, there's a chance Jackson may extend his tenure with the Knicks.
D-Rose Impact
Ian Begley of ESPN New York pointed out Derrick Rose's immense impact on the Knicks' current run this season. The NBA insider consider Rose as a key factor to the Knicks as they seek to secure a spot in the playoffs.
"Rose's defensive slips have hurt the Knicks at times. But it's hard to argue that Rose hasn't been a net positive in his first two months as a Knick. After all, New York went 1-3 when Rose was out with back spasms earlier this month (that record includes the Knicks' loss to Phoenix, in which Rose played just 10 minutes because of the back spasms).
The Knicks' field goal percentage (2-point and 3-point) improves when Rose is on the court, and the club's net rating is 6.8 points better with Rose on the court."
Dwight Howard Denies New York Interest
Howard, who is averaging 17.7 points and 12.7 rebounds in his first season with the Atlanta Hawks, denied he had interest in joining the Knicks last summer in his interview with Stefan Bondy of The New York Daily News.
"I never said that. I love New York, the Knicks are a great team. But that was something that was a lie," Howard said. "That was a rumor that was being put out there. Like I said, I have no issues with New York or the fans or the people there, but it's just something I've never said."